Decorative pillows are like the cherry on top of your home décor sundae! They tie a space together with color, texture, and personality, bringing a nice “pop” to beds and seating. But just like any accessory, they can start to show wear and tear over time. When your throw pillows have been through a spill, a pet nap, or just everyday use, cleaning decorative pillows can be the kind of daunting task that gets put off. After all, who wants to ruin those delicate fabrics or intricate embellishments?
Don’t toss them in the washer or replace them just yet! This guide will teach you the dos and don’ts of how to clean throw pillows, so you can bask in the glory of a perfectly decorated home
Related: How to Clean Your Duvet Cover
How to Clean Throw Pillows
1. Do Check the Care Label
Before you do anything, read the care label. Think of this as your pillow’s instruction manual. Some pillows can be machine-washed, while others require hand washing or dry cleaning. Following these instructions is the easiest way to avoid damage.
2. Do Spot Clean When Necessary
For minor stains, spot cleaning can work wonders. Use a mild detergent mixed with water and dab gently with a clean cloth. Avoid soaking the area, especially if the pillow is made of delicate fabrics like silk or velvet.
3. Do Test Cleaning Solutions First
Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the pillow (such as an interior seam of the cover). This ensures the fabric won’t discolor or become damaged during cleaning.
4. Do Use a Gentle Cycle (If Machine Washable)
If your pillow’s care label gives the green light for machine washing, use a gentle cycle with cold water. Place the pillow in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection. Always air-dry to prevent shrinkage or fabric distortion.
5. Do Consider Professional Cleaning
For pillows with intricate embroidery, beads, or other embellishments, dry cleaning throw pillows is often the safest option. Dependable Cleaners’ expert team knows exactly how to handle those delicate materials, ensuring your pillows stay beautiful and intact.
Related: Top Laundry Tricks & Hacks You Need To Know
How Not to Clean Throw Pillows
1. Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance
Even if your pillows don’t look dirty, they can collect dust, allergens, and pet dander. Give them a good shake or vacuum them with a gentle brush attachment regularly to keep them fresh.
2. Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals
Bleach and other harsh chemicals can weaken fabrics, strip colors, and ruin embellishments. Stick to mild, fabric-safe cleaning solutions when cleaning throw pillows.
3. Don’t Over-Wet Non-Machine Washable Pillows
When spot cleaning or hand washing, avoid saturating the pillow. Excess moisture can cause filling to clump or lead to mold growth inside the pillow.
4. Don’t Ignore Specialty Fabrics
Velvet, suede, and silk pillows often require specific cleaning methods. When in doubt, trust a professional to handle the job. It’s better to invest in proper care than risk ruining your pillows.
Extra TLC: Caring for Pillow Inserts
Don’t forget about the inserts! Most inserts are filled with materials like down, foam, or synthetic fibers, each requiring special care. For down or feather-filled inserts, check the label to see if they’re machine washable or require dry cleaning. Use a gentle cycle and mild detergent if washing at home, and make sure they are completely dry to avoid mildew growth. Foam inserts, on the other hand, should never be submerged in water; spot cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap works best. Regularly fluff your inserts to maintain their shape and consider using a pillow protector to guard against dirt and allergens. If you’re unsure about the care process, professional cleaners can handle delicate inserts with specialized cleaning solutions, keeping them fresh and extending their lifespan.
The Final Touch: Call in the Experts
Still feeling unsure about how to clean that embroidered silk pillow or velvet throw? Take out the guess work — leave it to the professionals! At Dependable Cleaners, we excel at dry cleaning delicate and specialty items. Our expert team ensures your pillows are treated with care, whether they’re family heirlooms or the stunning centerpiece of your living room.
Ready to refresh your favorite pillows? Contact Dependable Cleaners today for expert advice and services to make your decorative accents look as good as new! Give us a call at 303-777-2673 or find a Dependable Cleaners location near you.
